FAQs

Titles and Address

How should I pronounce “Lieutenant Governor”? 

In Canadian English, the first syllable of lieutenant is pronounced as “left” – /lɛf’tɛnənt/. 

This pronunciation is standard throughout the Commonwealth. 

The variant /lu’tɛnənt/ (rhyming with do) is the American pronunciation.

What do I call the Lieutenant Governor? 

The Lieutenant Governor’s full title is Her Honour the Honourable Edith Dumont. 

• In conversation, address her initially as “Your Honour”, and subsequently as “Ma’am.” 

• In writing or reference, use “Her Honour.” 

Recommended terms (English / French): 

Roles and Appointments

Who appoints the Lieutenant Governor? 

Lieutenant Governors are selected by the Prime Minister of Canada and appointed by the Governor General in Council (the Governor General acting on the advice of the federal Cabinet). Learn more on the Governor General’s website. 

How long is the Lieutenant Governor’s term? 

Under the Constitution Act, 1867, Lieutenant Governors serve non-fixed terms of at least five years. They remain in office until their successor is sworn in. 

What is the difference between “Lieutenant Governor” and “Lieutenant Governor in Council”? 

The Lieutenant Governor is a non-partisan representative of the Crown and does not engage in political decisions or advocacy. 

The term “Lieutenant Governor in Council” refers to the Lieutenant Governor acting on the advice of Cabinet. This means decisions made and approved by Cabinet are legally recorded as having been made by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. 

For matters involving this term, contact the appropriate Government of Ontario ministry or the Office of the Ombudsman of Ontario. Letters sent to the Lieutenant Governor on such matters are forwarded to the relevant minister for response. 

Honours and Medals

What medals does the Lieutenant Governor wear? 

Her Honour may wear the following honours, as appropriate for the occasion: 

• Insignia of the Order of Ontario — OOnt 

• Médaille de l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques – Chevalier

• Insignia of the Dame of Justice of the Order of St John 

• King Charles III Coronation Medal 

• Officier de l’Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur

Protocols and Ceremonies

Do people stand when the Lieutenant Governor enters a room? 

Yes. At formal events, guests are asked to stand when the Lieutenant Governor enters, as a sign of respect for the office she represents.

Is music played when the Lieutenant Governor enters? 

In formal settings, the Viceregal Salute may be played after the Lieutenant Governor has entered the room. 

What is the Loyal Toast to the King, and when is it used? 

The Loyal Toast is a formal expression of allegiance to the Sovereign. 

It is traditionally offered at official banquets, ceremonial dinners, and other events honouring the Crown’s presence or representation. 

Engagements, Greetings, and Requests

How can I request that the Lieutenant Governor attend an event? 

Please complete the Event Invitation Form available on our website. 

How can I arrange for birthday or anniversary greetings? 

Requests for congratulatory greetings can be made through our Birthday and Anniversary Greetings Form. We recommend that you submit your request as early as possible to allow for availability assessment and appropriate planning.

How can my organization request the honourary patronage of the Lieutenant Governor? 

Please complete the Honourary Patronage form, available on our website. Honorary patronage is granted to organisations whose activities align with the priorities and values represented by the vice-regal office.

How do I request an official photo of the King, the Governor General, or the Lieutenant Governor? 

• The King – via Canadian Heritage 

• The Governor General – via the Governor General’s website 

• The Lieutenant Governor – request via our general mailbox 

Tours, Employment, and Other Information

Are there tours of the Lieutenant Governor’s Suite? 

Tour information is available on the Ontario Legislative Assembly website. 

How can I get a job with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor? 

Employment opportunities are posted on the Careers: Ontario Public Service website.

Unsolicited résumés cannot be accepted. 

Who are the Lieutenant Governors across Canada? 

Learn more about viceregal representatives across Canada on the Governor General’s website.